West Bromwich Albion boss Alan Pardew downplays Calum Chambers speculation

West Bromwich Albion manager Alan Pardew has downplayed reports that Arsenal defender Calum Chambers could be heading to the club in a part-exchange deal that will see Jonny Evans move in the opposite direction.

The Baggies captain has been linked with the Gunners and a number of other Premier League clubs, but Pardew has denied that he is interested in bringing Chambers to The Hawthorns.

"No, that name has not entered into my thinking," Pardew told reporters when quizzed on the part-exchange rumour. "Or names at Arsenal, Man City or Man Utd if I'm honest."

Pardew went on to say that no firm offers have been tabled for Evans, despite reports that Arsenal have lodged a £25m for the player and Manchester City have stepped up their interest.

The Northern Ireland international was absent from the Baggies squad which defeated Exeter City in the FA Cup last weekend, but is expected to return to action when they take on Brighton & Hove Albion in the league this weekend.